25. Virginia Tech
College Football Top 25: Virginia Tech FootballAfter an appearance in the ACC Championship Game and a 10-win 2016 season, coach Justin Fuente will once again have the Hokies in the mix to win the Coastal Division. The second-year coach is regarded for his work on offense, especially at the quarterback position. Fuente will be tested once again this season, as Jerod Evans left early for the NFL, and standout receiver Isaiah Ford and tight end Bucky Hodges are also at the next level. Redshirt freshman Josh Jackson closed spring ball with an edge at quarterback, with junior college recruit A.J. Bush and true freshman Hendon Hookier fighting for snaps. The battle will resume in the fall, but the Hokies have to find playmakers around receiver Cam Phillips, along with generating more production from the ground game. A defense that returns seven starters should be among the best in the ACC. Cornerback Greg Stroman and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds should challenge for All-America honors on a unit that allowed only 22.8 points per game last year. The opener against West Virginia at FedEx Field should give some early insight into the quarterback situation. However, it***8217;s likely Virginia Tech***8217;s hopes of another division title rest with the Nov. 4 trip to Miami.

24. USF
The Bulls are not only Athlon's pick to win the American Athletic Conference, but this team is also the projected top Group of 5 program for 2017. New coach Charlie Strong inherits a strong foundation from former coach Willie Taggart, starting with dynamic quarterback Quinton Flowers. As a junior in 2016, Flowers threw for 2,812 yards and 24 scores and accounted for 1,530 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground. Standout running back Marlon Mack departed early for the NFL and will be missed. However, D***8217;Ernest Johnson, Darius Tice and redshirt freshman Elijah Mack should be a capable trio to handle the carries. The Bulls also must replace left tackle Kofi Amichia and leading receiver Rodney Adams. The defense gave up 31.6 points per game last season but should improve with nine returning starters, including standouts Auggie Sanchez (LB), Deadrin Senat and Bruce Hector (DL) and Deatrick Nichols (CB). Strong***8217;s arrival and background on this side of the ball should also help USF***8217;s defense take a step forward. The schedule for USF is favorable. The Bulls could be favored in all 12 regular season games and host Temple, Houston and Tulsa.

23. Miami

It***8217;s a close call for the top spot in the ACC***8217;s Coastal Division, but Athlon gives the nod to Miami. The biggest offseason question mark for coach Mark Richt remains at quarterback. Brad Kaaya departed early for the NFL, leaving junior Malik Rosier, true freshmen N***8217;Kosi Perry and Cade Weldon and sophomore Evan Shirreffs as the top contenders for the No. 1 spot. Rosier has one career start, but he may not hold onto the job for long if Perry shows a good grasp of the offense in fall workouts. Regardless of which quarterback starts, expect to see plenty of running back Mark Walton, along with emerging star Ahmmon Richards at receiver. Until the pieces fall into place on offense, the Hurricanes can lean on a defense that returns seven starters from a group that limited opponents to just 18.5 points per game in 2016. The line has a chance to be among the best in the nation, and the starting trio of linebackers will be better in 2017 after getting significant playing time as true freshmen. The secondary is the biggest concern for defensive coordinator Manny Diaz. Road trips to Florida State, Pitt and North Carolina will be challenging in conference play. However, Miami hosts Virginia Tech on Nov. 4 ***8211; a game that could decide the Coastal Division winner.

22. Kansas State
Bill Snyder***8217;s team is always dangerous in the Big 12 and could be a dark horse to contend for the conference title in 2017. Kansas State returns a good chunk of its core from a team that won nine games last season. Quarterback Jesse Ertz headlines the offense, and he***8217;s surrounded by breakout candidates in receiver Byron Pringle and running back Alex Barnes. The Wildcats also return three starters from an offensive line that should be one of the best in the Big 12. Replacing standout linebacker Elijah Lee and end Jordan Willis are the biggest concerns on defense. This unit led the Big 12 in scoring defense last year (22.3 ppg) but shouldn***8217;t slip too far despite losing Lee and Willis. End Reggie Walker anchors the line after recording 6.5 sacks as a freshman last season, while cornerback D.J. Reed ***8211; the Big 12***8217;s Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2016 ***8211; leads the way in the secondary. The Wildcats have to play at Oklahoma State and Texas, but Oklahoma visits Manhattan on Oct. 21.

21. Oregon
New coach Willie Taggart inherits a promising core of young talent for his first season in Eugene. Although the Ducks are coming off their first losing record since 2004, a quick rebound should be in order. Quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 1,936 yards and 19 touchdowns as a true freshman last fall and is surrounded by a strong supporting cast that features running back Royce Freeman and receivers Darren Carrington and Charles Nelson. The Ducks also went with a youth movement in the trenches last season and this unit is slated to return four starters from the final two-deep. Additionally, left tackle Tyrell Crosby returns after missing nearly all of 2016 due to injury. Scoring points won***8217;t be a problem for Taggart***8217;s team, but the defense needs to take a step forward if Oregon wants to challenge Stanford or Washington in the Pac-12 North. The good news? Taggart hired standout coordinator Jim Leavitt away from Colorado and has plenty of experience at all three levels of the defense returning for 2017. Sophomore linebacker Troy Dye is one of the Pac-12's rising stars on defense, and the addition of Clemson graduate transfer Scott Pagano provides a boost up front. The Ducks also catch a break in scheduling by missing USC in crossover play, while Washington State and Utah visit Eugene.

20. Notre Dame
Yes, Notre Dame finished 4-8 in 2016. However, the Fighting Irish lost seven of those games by eight points or less and finished No. 29 in the F/+ ratings. While there is certainly cause for concern in South Bend, coach Brian Kelly hired two standout coordinators this offseason (Chip Long on offense and Mike Elko on defense), and there***8217;s a good core of talent in place. A quick rebound back to a winning record should be in order for 2017. New quarterback Brandon Wimbush ranked as the No. 45 overall recruit in the 247Sports Composite and is a breakout candidate this fall. Running back Josh Adams (933 yards) just missed on a 1,000-yard season last year and will be joined by Dexter Williams to form an effective one-two punch in the backfield. Torii Hunter Jr. elected to skip his final year of eligibility for baseball, but the Fighting Irish have a capable group of targets. Equanimeous St. Brown (58 catches) is back as the team***8217;s leading receiver, with Kevin Stepherson (18.5 ypc) and C.J. Sanders (24) headlining the secondary targets. Tight end Alize Mack (formely Jones) is back after a one-year suspension and could be a difference-maker. Mike McGlinchey and Quenton Nelson are All-America candidates up front and anchor a line that returns four starters. Improving the defense was Kelly***8217;s top priority this offseason and the arrival of Elko should help this unit take a step forward. Most of last year***8217;s depth chart returns intact, but linemen Isaac Rochell and Jarron Jones, linebacker James Onwualu and cornerback Cole Luke depart South Bend. The strength of this group is at linebacker, largely due to the play of senior Nyles Morgan. Cornerback Shaun Crawford and safety Nick Watkins are back from injury to bolster a secondary that allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 61.7 percent of their throws last season. The schedule features 11 bowl teams (and Michigan State). However, games against Georgia, USC, Navy and NC State are in South Bend next season.

19. Tennessee
The Volunteers fell short of most preseason expectations of a SEC East title in 2016, but coach Butch Jones has still pieced together back-to-back nine-win seasons. In order for Tennessee to edge Florida and Georgia in the East this fall, this team has to navigate a schedule that features games at Alabama and Florida, while LSU and Georgia visit Neyland Stadium. The SEC slate presents its share of challenges, but the Volunteers also have some significant personnel concerns on both sides of the ball. There***8217;s also a new play-caller on offense with Larry Scott taking over for Mike DeBord. Scott has two talented quarterbacks ***8211; Quinten Dormady and Jarrett Guarantano ***8211; at his disposal, with the battle for the starting job expected to continue into the fall. Junior John Kelly is due for a breakout year at running back, but depth is an issue at the position. Junior Jauan Jennings leads the way at receiver, but similar to the running back spot, the overall depth is a concern for Jones. The Volunteers also need more consistent play from their offensive line, with true freshman Trey Smith expected to play a key role this year. Injuries hit Tennessee***8217;s defense hard in 2016, and this unit loses two standouts in end Derek Barnett and cornerback Cam Sutton. Considering all of the injuries this team dealt with on defense, the playing time by backups and new starters should improve the overall depth for this unit in 2017. Linebacker Darrin Kirkland should be the leader of the front seven for coordinator Bob Shoop. The success of the defense will largely hinge on the development of the line. Former top recruits Jonathan Kongbo, Shy Tuttle, Kahlil McKenzie and Kyle Phillips need to deliver on their potential.

18. Louisville
After a dynamic sophomore campaign, quarterback Lamar Jackson hopes to take Louisville into contention for the CFB Playoff once again. He***8217;s also back for another run at the Heisman after accounting for 3,543 yards and 30 touchdowns through the air and adding 1,571 yards and 21 scores on the ground last season. Jackson set the bar high last year and matching those totals in 2017 could be difficult. However, he***8217;s the nation***8217;s best playmaker and is only going to get better as a passer this fall. Jackson***8217;s supporting cast features some new faces after the departure of running back Brandon Radcliff, receivers James Quick (45 catches), Jamari Staples (36) and tight end Cole Hikutini (50 catches). While those are big losses, the cupboard isn***8217;t bare for coach Bobby Petrino. Jeremy Smith should be a capable fill-in at running back, with Reggie Bonnafon chipping in as an all-purpose threat, and Seth Dawkins, Jaylen Smith and Dez Fitzpatrick filling out the receiving corps. The biggest concern for Petrino***8217;s offense remains up front. Left tackle Geron Christian is one of the ACC***8217;s top linemen, but this unit surrendered 47 sacks in 13 games last fall. New coordinator Peter Sirmon inherits a defense that allowed only 23.8 points per game last season and returns a solid foundation with seven starters back. Senior linebacker Stacy Thomas and cornerback Jaire Alexander are two of the ACC***8217;s top returning defenders. This unit could get a huge boost if senior Trevon Young returns to 100 percent after missing all of 2016 due to injury. A Week 3 showdown against Clemson is an early barometer test for Jackson and Louisville***8217;s ACC title hopes.

17. Stanford
Stanford has been a model of consistency under coach David Shaw. The Cardinal have won at least 10 games in five out of the last six seasons. Reaching that total in 2017 is within reach, as Stanford is the biggest threat to Washington in the Pac-12 North. Some mystery surrounds the quarterback position. Quarterback Keller Chryst suffered a knee injury in the Sun Bowl win over North Carolina and is on track to return by fall practice. If Chryst suffers any setbacks, Ryan Burns has starting experience, and redshirt freshman K.J. Costello was one of the top quarterbacks in the 2016 signing class. In addition to the quarterback uncertainty, the Cardinal have to replace running back Christian McCaffrey. While McCaffrey***8217;s all-around versatility is unlikely to be matched by one player, the running back duo of Bryce Love and Cameron Scarlett should be a capable one-two punch on the ground. Trenton Irwin (37 catches) and JJ Arcega-Whiteside (15.8 ypc) are back to lead the receiving corps, while the offensive line returns four starters, including Nate Herbig and center Jesse Burkett. Solomon Thomas is a big loss for Shaw***8217;s defense, but the secondary should be among the best in the nation with the return of cornerback Quenton Meeks and safety Justin Reid. Road trips to Washington State, Utah and USC are on tap, while Stanford hosts Oregon, UCLA and Washington next season.

16. Florida
The Gators have claimed back-to-back SEC East titles under coach Jim McElwain, and a third one is within reach. In order to edge Georgia for the division crown, improvement on offense is a must. Florida finished 100th nationally in scoring in 2015 and 107th in 2016. Luke Del Rio is the team***8217;s most experienced quarterback and missed spring ball due to a shoulder injury. However, Del Rio was facing an uphill battle to hold onto the starting job, as redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks is the team***8217;s most talented option under center and worked all spring as the No. 1 quarterback. He won***8217;t have much time to grow into the job, as Florida takes on Michigan in its season opener, followed by a matchup against Tennessee in Week 3. Until the passing game develops, the Gators could lean heavily on running back Jordan Scarlett. Antonio Callaway anchors the SEC***8217;s top receiving corps and should ease Franks***8217; transition into the No. 1 role. The offensive line should improve even though tackle David Sharpe left early for the NFL. McElwain has holes to fill on defense at each level and a new coordinator (Randy Shannon) calling the plays in 2017. Linebacker Jarrad Davis, safety Marcus Maye, lineman Caleb Brantley and cornerbacks Jalen Tabor and Quincy Wilson headline the key departures on defense. Despite losing a wealth of talent, this unit may not slip too far on the stat sheet. Cornerback Duke Dawson is an All-America candidate, and there***8217;s plenty of promise in the front seven.

Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2017

15. Georgia
Kirby Smart***8217;s debut (8-5) was a mild disappointment. But after losing three games by three points or less last season, the Bulldogs aren***8217;t far from the top of the SEC East. With 11 returning starters on defense, and the continued development of Jacob Eason at quarterback, Georgia is Athlon***8217;s pick to win the SEC East in 2017. Eason should benefit from a full offseason to work as the starter, and the backfield tandem of Nick Chubb and Sony Michel should ensure the ground game is among the best in the nation. The question marks on offense remain up front and outside with the receiving corps. Former No. 1 recruit Trenton Thompson had a breakout performance in the Liberty Bowl but was away from the team in the spring. The junior lineman is expected to return, providing Smart with a talented anchor to build around in the trenches. The linebacking corps is among the nation***8217;s best, and three seniors lead the way in the secondary. The annual showdown against Florida in Jacksonville is likely to decide whether or not the Bulldogs win the SEC East.

14. Oklahoma State
The big-play connection of quarterback Mason Rudolph to wide receiver James Washington is more than enough to keep Oklahoma State in the hunt for the Big 12 title next year. The Cowboys also return promising running back Justice Hill (1,142 yards), and there***8217;s optimism the offensive line will continue to improve behind guard Marcus Keyes and tackle Zach Crabtree. The post-spring addition of Cal graduate transfer Aaron Cochran was a huge boost for coach Mike Gundy***8217;s offensive line. Washington has plenty of support at receiver. Jalen McCleskey returns after leading the team with 73 catches, Marcell Ateman returns from injury, and LSU transfer Tyron Johnson is eligible in 2017. This is the nation***8217;s No. 1 receiving corps. The early departure of tackle Vincent Taylor was a setback for a unit already losing cornerback Ashton Lampkin, linebacker Jordan Burton and safety Jordan Sterns. Gundy also dipped into the graduate transfer ranks on defense, landing former Clemson cornerback Adrian Baker after spring ball. After finishing second in the conference in back-to-back years, the mission for 2017 is pretty simple: Win the Big 12. To do that, the Cowboys have to navigate road trips to Texas and West Virginia but host rival Oklahoma on Nov. 4.

13. Texas
The Longhorns won the offseason coaching carousel by bringing Tom Herman to Austin after a successful two-year run at Houston. The former graduate assistant under Mack Brown inherits a team that finished 5-7 last year but features plenty of promising pieces to build around on both sides of the ball. Shane Buechele returns as the team***8217;s quarterback after throwing for 2,958 yards and 21 scores as a true freshman in 2016. Freshman Sam Ehlinger could push Buechele for the starting job in the fall, but the sophomore is expected to hold onto the top spot. Buechele will be throwing behind an offensive line that features four returning starters, including standout left tackle Connor Williams. Running back D***8217;Onta Foreman (2,028 yards) is the biggest loss on offense. However, Chris Warren returns after missing most of 2016 due to injury. Sophomore Collin Johnson is expected to be the go-to target, with sophomore Devin Duvernay seeing an increased role. Improving the defense is a must for Herman, and the addition of coordinator Todd Orlando will pay dividends right away. This unit returns largely intact, but depth on the line is an issue after two players transferred in May. Linebacker Malik Jefferson seems primed to deliver a huge junior year. The schedule sets up favorably with Kansas State and Oklahoma State visiting Austin.

Order a Copy of Athlon's 2017 National College Football Preview or Regional Preview Edition

12. Wisconsin
After facing one of the nation***8217;s most difficult schedules in 2016, the 2017 slate for coach Paul Chryst and the Badgers is considerably easier. A crossover game against Michigan and a road trip to Nebraska are challenging, but Wisconsin won***8217;t have to play Ohio State or Penn State from the East. And after coming up just short in the Big Ten title game last year, can Chryst***8217;s team take the next step this fall? In order to knock off the East champion in Indianapolis, the Badgers need more consistency out of the passing game. The good news? Sophomore quarterback Alex Hornibrook is promising, and the receiving corps features All-America tight end Troy Fumagalli. Standout left tackle Ryan Ramczyk will be missed, but there***8217;s plenty of experience and talent returning to keep the offensive line among the best in the Big Ten. The trio of Bradrick Shaw, Chris James and Taiwan Deal should be enough to compensate for the loss of running back Corey Clement. New defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard inherits a unit that allowed only 15.6 points per game last season. The Badgers don***8217;t have many glaring weaknesses on this group, but linebackers T.J. Watt and Vince Biegel leave big shoes to fill. The return of Chris Orr and Jack Cichy from injury should alleviate some of the concern at linebacker. Hornibrook***8217;s development is crucial for Wisconsin to climb higher in the top 25 this season.

11. LSU
Ed Orgeron***8217;s first full season at the helm in Baton Rouge begins with a familiar question: What will LSU get out of its offense? It***8217;s no secret the Tigers have one of the nation***8217;s top running backs in Derrius Guice and a strong foundation to build around on the offensive line. New coordinator Matt Canada was one of the SEC***8217;s top assistant hires for 2017, but this offense needs more from its passing attack. Danny Etling had offseason back surgery but will return in time for fall practice and is expected to hold onto the starting job. Etling***8217;s performance is critical to LSU***8217;s hopes of pushing Alabama in the SEC West. In addition to the concerns about quarterback production, there***8217;s also uncertainty at receiver, as just one player (D.J. Chark) returns with more than 10 catches. LSU***8217;s defense returns only four starters, but under coordinator Dave Aranda, this unit will be one of the best in the nation next fall. End/linebacker Arden Key could lead the SEC in sacks in 2017. Cornerback Donte Jackson should push for All-SEC honors, and true freshman JaCoby Stevens could see significant playing time at safety. Linebacker is Aranda***8217;s biggest concern. Talent certainly isn***8217;t an issue in Baton Rouge. However, the Tigers will only go as far as the quarterback play allows it to.

10. Michigan
Jim Harbaugh has a major rebuilding project on his hands for 2017. However, thanks to back-to-back top-five recruiting classes, the Wolverines won***8217;t be down for long. Quarterback Wilton Speight is back after a promising first year as the team***8217;s starter. The receiving corps must be revamped, with incoming freshmen Donovan Peoples-Jones and Tarik Black likely to play a huge role in the passing game this season. The strength of the offense should be the ground game. Sophomore Chris Evans leads a talented group of running backs, with Ty Isaac, Kareem Walker and Karan Higdon providing support. The left side of the line should be anchored by Mason Cole and Ben Bredeson, but this unit did not perform well late in the 2016 campaign and remained a concern exiting spring ball. The Wolverines return only one starter ***8211; linebacker Mike McCray ***8211; on defense. But don***8217;t expect this unit to slip on the stat sheet. Sophomore lineman Rashan Gary is a rising star, senior tackle Maurice Hurst is a candidate for All-America honors and the recent recruiting efforts should produce starting talent in the back seven. Matchups against Wisconsin and Penn State come on the road this year, but rival Ohio State visits Ann Arbor on Nov. 25.

Related: College Football's Top 25 Quarterbacks on the Rise for 2017

9. Auburn
The Tigers are the biggest threat to Alabama in the SEC. With the addition of former Baylor quarterback Jarrett Stidham, the offense now has a difference-maker under center to go with one of the conference***8217;s top ground attacks. Stidham impressed this spring and possesses the arm strength and accuracy to open up the passing game downfield. He***8217;s also surrounded by a cast of promising playmakers on the outside, including sophomore Nate Craig-Myers. Kamryn Pettway emerged as one of the SEC***8217;s top running backs after posting 1,224 yards in 2016. He***8217;s joined by Kerryon Johnson to form one of the league***8217;s top tandems, while the offensive line is once again a strength with the return of three starters. Kevin Steele***8217;s defense also is in good shape for 2017. Sophomore Marlon Davidson should fill the void left behind by Carl Lawson in the trenches, while the linebacker unit is anchored by Deshaun Davis and Tre Williams. Depth is an issue at safety, but cornerback Carlton Davis is one of the best in the SEC. A Week 2 road trip to Clemson is a huge opportunity to make an early statement, while contending in the West is likely to come down to an Oct. 14 road date at LSU and the Nov. 25 Iron Bowl.

8. Oklahoma

The Sooners are aiming for a third consecutive Big 12 title and a berth in the CFB Playoff in 2017. But this task got a little harder in June, as coach Bob Stoops retired and handed over the keys to the program to offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley. He's one of the rising stars in the coaching ranks, but this will be Riley's first chance to be a head coach - at the age of 33. Quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the way for Oklahoma's high-powered offense. The senior has tossed 76 touchdown passes under Riley the last two years and returns as one of the front-runners to win the Heisman Trophy. Mayfield is supported by one of the nation***8217;s top offensive lines, but question marks surround the receiving corps after losing Dede Westbrook. Who steps up to be the No. 1 receiver? Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon leave big shoes to fill at running back, but Rodney Anderson and Abdul Adams should be an effective one-two punch. The defense surrendered 28.8 points a game in 2016 but should improve on that total in 2017. Linebacker Jordan Evans was a big loss, and lineman Jordan Wade and Austin Roberts also expired their eligibility. However, standout pass rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo returns, and coordinator Mike Stoops has an emerging star in Caleb Kelly at linebacker. Steven Parker and Jordan Thomas return to anchor a secondary that showed improvement late in the 2016 season. Spring star Parnell Motley and the development of sophomore Jordan Parker adds to the talent on the back end. The path to a second playoff bid runs through road trips at Ohio State, Kansas State and Oklahoma State next season.

Related: College Football's Top 25 Toughest Schedules for 2017

7. Clemson
The defending national champs are due for a small step back in the rankings in 2017. However, as the No. 7 ranking indicates, Clemson is still one of the top contenders to earn a spot in the CFB Playoff. Considering the amount of talent leaving Death Valley ***8211; quarterback Deshaun Watson, receiver Mike Williams, linebacker Ben Boulware, cornerback Cordrea Tankersley and running back Wayne Gallman ***8211; it***8217;s a testament to the job coach Dabo Swinney has done on the recruiting trail and in overall program development. A three-man competition to replace Watson is expected to extend deep into fall workouts. Junior Kelly Bryant is the front-runner, but true freshman Hunter Johnson is the name to remember. Left tackle Mitch Hyatt anchors a line that could be the best in the ACC this fall. While Williams and Artavis Scott will be missed on the outside, the receiving corps is still one of the deepest in the nation, headlined by Deon Cain and Hunter Renfrow. Similar to the offense, the defense has a couple of voids to fill this offseason. However, coordinator Brent Venables should quickly find the right answers to keep this unit performing at a high level. Ends Christian Wilkins and Clelin Ferrell, tackle Dexter Lawrence and linebacker Kendall Joseph are the anchors on defense next year. If Bryant, Johnson or Zerrick Cooper settles into the starting job, the Nov. 11 home game against Florida State could decide the ACC Atlantic title.

6. Penn State
The Nittany Lions were one of the nation***8217;s most improved teams over the second half of 2016 and that momentum should carry into the '17 campaign. After just missing on a CFB Playoff berth last year, coach James Franklin***8217;s team won***8217;t have to go far in order to crack the top four. The defending Big Ten champions are loaded on offense with the return of quarterback Trace McSorley and running back Saquon Barkley. Wide receiver Chris Godwin left for the NFL draft, but tight end Mike Gesicki is a go-to target for McSorley and an All-America candidate for 2017. Even though Godwin is a big loss, Penn State should be fine at receiver with DaeSean Hamilton (34 catches), DeAndre Thompkins (27) and Saeed Blacknall (15). Additionally, sophomore Juwan Johnson had a breakout spring and is poised to take on a bigger role in 2017. An improving offensive line loses only one starter (Brian Gaia), and there***8217;s plenty of depth with the return of Andrew Nelson and Brendan Mahon after both players missed significant time in 2016. The defense gave up 5.04 yards per play under first-year coordinator Brent Pry and returns a good chunk of talent. However, top cornerback John Reid was lost for the year due to a spring knee injury. One of Pry***8217;s top offseason concerns is at defensive end following the departures of Garrett Sickels and Evan Schwan. Penn State***8217;s toughest game is at Ohio State (Oct. 28), but Michigan (Oct. 21), Nebraska (Oct. 18) and Pitt (Sept. 9) all visit Happy Valley.

Related: Ranking the Big Ten Coaches for 2017

5. USC
Thanks to the emergence of quarterback Sam Darnold, USC should be a playoff contender in 2017. Darnold***8217;s play was a big reason why the Trojans showed marked improvement after starting 1-3 last season. As a redshirt freshman last year, he threw for 3,086 yards and 31 scores and added 250 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Darnold is good enough to carry this team to a Pac-12 title on his own, but the supporting cast features a likely All-Pac-12 running back in Ronald Jones, as well as a solid group of receivers. The biggest concern on offense remains up front. Standout tackles Chad Wheeler and Zach Banner expired their eligibility, and guard Damien Mama left early for the next level. Projected starters Toa Lobendahn and Viane Talamaivao are recovering from injuries but will return for the start of the season. Coordinator Clancy Pendergast proved to be one of the top assistant hires of last offseason, as USC***8217;s defense limited opponents to 24.2 points per game despite major question marks in the front seven. Pendergast will have a solid core in place for 2017, but tackle Stevie Tu***8217;ikolovatu must be replaced, and cornerback Adoree***8217; Jackson decided to leave early for the NFL. This unit features an All-America candidate at linebacker in junior Cameron Smith, along with rising stars Rasheem Green (DL) and Iman Marshall (CB). The schedule features its share of challenges, starting with games against Stanford and Texas in September, along with road trips to Washington State, Notre Dame and Colorado.

4. Washington
Even though Chris Petersen has to replace a few key cogs from last season***8217;s playoff team, Washington is primed for another run at the Pac-12 title and spot among the nation***8217;s top four teams. Quarterback Jake Browning is back after throwing for 3,430 yards and 43 scores last season, but the junior has to find a new go-to target after the departure of receiver John Ross to the NFL. Dante Pettis (53 catches) moves into the No. 1 role, while the Huskies will be counting on bigger contributions from Chico McClatcher, Ty Jones, Aaron Fuller and Quentin Pounds in the receiving corps. The one-two punch of Myles Gaskin and Lavon Coleman provides plenty of balance and support on offense out of the backfield, while three starters are back on a standout line. The biggest concerns for a repeat trip to the CFB Playoff rest with a defense that loses standout safety Budda Baker, cornerbacks Kevin King and Sidney Jones and lineman Elijah Qualls. However, coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is one of the best in the nation, and this unit is anchored by standout senior linebacker Azeem Victor. Junior Vita Vea leads the way up front, while the rebuilding effort in the secondary should be minimized thanks to the emergence of cornerbacks Jordan Miller and Byron Murphy in the spring, along with the return of rising star Taylor Rapp at safety. The schedule also sets up for anotherplayoff berth. Washington does not play USC in the regular season and hosts Oregon and Washington State. A trip to Stanford on Nov. 10 is the team***8217;s toughest road test.

Related: Ranking the Pac-12 Coaches for 2017

3. Florida State
The balance of power in the ACC should shift back to Tallahassee in 2017. The Seminoles return nine starters from a defense that showed marked improvement over the second half of last year, and safety Derwin James is back after missing nearly all of 2016 due to a knee injury. James is arguably the best defender in college football. The line is overflowing with talent, as ends Josh Sweat and Brian Burns anchor a standout pass rush, and tackles Derrick Nnadi and Demarcus Christmas plug the interior. Cornerback Tarvarus McFadden is a lockdown cover man on the outside. Quarterback Deondre Francois threw for 3,350 yards and 20 touchdowns in an impressive freshman debut in 2016. Now as a sophomore, Francois is expected to take his game to the next level and help carry this team to a CFB Playoff berth. That***8217;s certainly within reach for the sophomore, but he also needs more help from the offensive line and receiving corps. Receivers Nyqwan Murray and Auden Tate are primed for breakout seasons as the top targets for Francois. The big-play ability and production of running back Dalvin Cook will be missed. However, junior Jacques Patrick and five-star recruit Cam Akers are a capable tandem and should prevent any drop-off in ground game. Florida State will be tested right away with a matchup against Alabama in Atlanta to open the season. The Seminoles host Miami, NC State and Louisville in key conference games, but a matchup at Clemson and a road date at Florida will determine whether or not Fisher***8217;s team can finish in the top four.

2. Ohio State
Considering Ohio State returned only six starters headed into 2016, a trip to the College Football Playoff was probably a year ahead of schedule for coach Urban Meyer***8217;s team. Despite losing a few key pieces from last season***8217;s team, the Buckeyes are primed for another run at the national title. In an effort to jumpstart the offense, coach Urban Meyer hired former Indiana coach Kevin Wilson to take over the play-calling duties. Wilson***8217;s arrival is good news for quarterback J.T. Barrett, as the senior begins 2017 as one of the leading Heisman candidates. A big concern is finding playmakers at receiver, especially after Noah Brown and Curtis Samuel declared for the NFL draft. Junior Parris Campbell and sophomore Demario McCall are two players to watch in the passing game this fall. The offensive line loses standout center Pat Elflein, but guard Billy Price is expected to slide to the middle to fill the void. The strength of the defense will be in the trenches. This unit is headlined by All-America candidates Sam Hubbard, Tyquan Lewis and Nick Bosa, and rivals Clemson as the best in college football. Raekwon McMillan will be missed at linebacker, but Jerome Baker, Chris Worley and Dante Booker form a solid trio. For the second preseason in a row, uncertainty surrounds the Ohio State secondary. This unit lost cornerbacks Gareon Conley and Marshon Lattimore and safety Malik Hooker to the NFL. However, thanks to elite recruiting classes, the drop-off should be minimal. Junior college recruit Kendall Sheffield and incoming freshmen Jeffrey Okudah and Shaun Wade should make an instant impact, with junior Denzel Ward and safety Damon Webb back as the unit***8217;s top veterans. Ohio State has to head to Michigan next year, but Penn State and Oklahoma visit Columbus.

Related: Ranking All 130 College Football Quarterbacks for 2017: Spring Edition

1. Alabama
Nick Saban***8217;s team must replace a few key players from last season, but the Crimson Tide are once again the pick to win it all in 2017. The defense suffered key losses at each level, yet still figures to rank as the nation***8217;s top unit. Nose guard Da***8217;Ron Payne and end Da***8217;Shawn Hand are the new leaders up front after Jonathan Allen expired his eligibility. The linebacker unit features three new starters, but the next wave of standouts is ready to emerge for the Crimson Tide. Seniors Shaun Dion Hamilton and Rashaan Evans lead this group for Saban, with Christian Miller and Anfernee Jennings slated to pick up the slack left behind by edge rushers Ryan Anderson and Tim Williams. True freshman Dylan Moses is another name to watch in this unit. The secondary is the strength of the defense. Marlon Humphrey departed early to the NFL, but seniors Anthony Averett and Tony Brown return at cornerback. The safety pairing of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Ronnie Harrison is the best in college football. Fitzpatrick***8217;s versatility to play cornerback or safety is a huge asset for this defense. New play-caller Brian Daboll isn***8217;t expected to make too many changes on offense, but he is tasked with helping quarterback Jalen Hurts develop more as a passer. Hurts***8217; dual-threat ability is no secret after rushing for just under 1,000 yards last fall. But the sophomore must become more consistent as a passer for this offense to improve in 2017. Hurts will be throwing to one of the nation***8217;s best receiving corps. Junior Calvin Ridley will challenge for All-America honors, with seniors Cam Sims and Robert Foster and freshman Jerry Jeudy rounding out the key targets. Left tackle Jonah Williams anchors one of the nation***8217;s best offensive lines, and the running back position is the deepest in college football. Bo Scarbrough came on strong at the end of 2016, and he***8217;s joined by Damien Harris, Joshua Jacobs and five-star freshman Najee Harris as the key backfield pieces. Making it through the regular season undefeated won***8217;t be easy, but Alabama is Athlon***8217;s pick to hoist the national championship trophy in Atlanta on Jan. 8.

Top 2017 non-conference games to get hyped for:

Spoiler

Alabama vs. Florida State
Date: Saturday, Sept. 2
Time: 7 p.m. (ABC)

The best game of the entire regular season might occur at its start when the Crimson Tide and Seminoles clash in Atlanta. There***8217;s a chance the teams enter Week 1 ranked as the preseason No. 1 and No. 2 in the Associated Press poll, which would create the first ever No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup in the first week of a season. Add in storylines like a dual of sophomore QBs (Jalen Hurts vs. Deondre Francois), the meeting of elite 2017 class running backs (Najee Harris vs. Cam Akers) and the litany of future high-round draft picks (welcome back, Derwin James; excited to see you again, Minkah Fitzpatrick), and this game could not get any better.

Let***8217;s just hope Mercedes-Benz Stadium can keep a roof over the contest.

Florida vs. Michigan
Date: Saturday, Sept. 2
Time: 2:30 p.m. (ABC)

AT&T Stadium hosts a yearly Week 1 showdown between traditional powers, and this year Florida and Michigan will face off in the Cowboys Classic. Michigan returns just five starters off a 10-win team, and this will be our first window into what Jim Harbaugh can do with his own players in what many consider a transition season. Florida, back-to-back SEC East champions, will be formidable once again. The Gators have a big question at quarterback, however. It***8217;s likely redshirt freshman Feleipe Franks gets the starting nod, but Malik Zaire might throw another wrinkle into this contest if he makes it to Gainesville.

Texas A&M at UCLA
Date: Sunday, Sept. 3
Time: 6:30 p.m. (FOX)

Teams that mirror each other in a number of ways, this is a meeting of programs in desperate need of early-season momentum. Kevin Sumlin and Jim Mora both enter 2017 with warm seats, and a season-opening win over a marquee opponent would go a long way to quelling anxious fan bases, especially for Sumlin. Add in the likely debut of an Aggie freshman quarterback, the return of Josh Rosen and the debut of No. 1 overall player in the 2017 class, Jaelan Phillips, and there***8217;s plenty to look forward to with this game outside of the LA weather.

The return of this rivalry will be played on the largest stage possible ***8211; in an NFL stadium on Sunday night. One of just two college games the day before Labor Day (Texas A&M/UCLA will also play Sunday night), West Virginia and Virginia Tech will play for the first time in 12 seasons, with the game coming at FedEx Field, home of the Washington Redskins.

A 10-win team a year ago, the Mountaineers have high hopes with Florida transfer Will Grier taking over under center. Virginia Tech, the ACC Coastal champions, has a question mark at quarterback but is very much a program trending upward under Justin Fuente.

Auburn at Clemson
Date: Saturday, Sept. 9
Time: 6 p.m. (TBD)

Clemson opens the 2017 season at home against Kent State, but its title defense truly starts Week 2 against Auburn. The Tigers of the South Carolina ilk are out to prove the Deshaun Watson era is no one-off run of success, while the Tigers of Alabama hope their new quarterback, Jarrett Stidham, will provide the same level of fireworks as a former junior college quarterback transfer (a guy named Cam).

Auburn and Clemson both have national title hopes in 2017. A non-conference game will never determine a team***8217;s long-term fate, but it will severely dent the loser's chances.

Last year***8217;s marquee non-conference clash turned into a rain-soaked dud (the Buckeyes won 45-24), but 2017 should be different. Oklahoma enters the season riding a nine-game win streak with a Heisman contender at quarterback in Baker Mayfield. Ohio State, meanwhile, is again a preseason favorite but also must deal with the aftermath of a 31-0 loss to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl.

This game will go from one iconic stadium to another ***8211; this time The Horseshoe hosts ***8211; and this clash of bluebloods promises to be a thriller ***8230; we hope.

Georgia at Notre Dame
Date: Saturday, Sept. 9
Time: 6:30 (NBC)

Neither Notre Dame (Temple) nor Georgia (Appalachian State) has an easy opener, but it***8217;s their Week 2 meeting that will truly serve as a tone setter. Notre Dame is all but hitting reset after a 4-8 season with a new defensive and offensive coordinator, quarterback and attitude from Brian Kelly ***8211; OK, maybe not, but he***8217;s thrown zero people (at least those currently on the team) under the bus this offseason. Georgia, meanwhile, returns 17 starters and is expected to take a leap forward in its second season under Kirby Smart.

A loss might mean more than a win in this matchup. Both fan bases will likely begin to panic if this game doesn***8217;t go their way.

Nebraska at Oregon
Date: Saturday, Sept. 9
Time: 3:30 p.m. (FOX)

Nebraska wasn***8217;t necessarily ***8220;back***8221; last season with a 9-4 campaign ***8211; former coach Bo Pelini used to win nine games like clockwork ***8211; but the team***8217;s early-season run announced clearly Mike Riley had the Cornhuskers in a better place. No game mattered more in that pronouncement than a Week 3 win over the Ducks. In 2017, the game will serve as a potential launching pad for both programs.

Oregon hit the reset button this offseason and brought in Willie Taggart. Meanwhile, Nebraska, and its new 3-4 defense, hopes to challenge Wisconsin for supremacy in the Big Ten West. Both teams have remarkably manageable early-season schedules. The winner of this game could easily start 5-0.

Texas at USC
Date: Saturday, Sept. 16
Time: 7:30 p.m. (FOX)

Conference games will likely jump to the forefront of the conversation in Week 3 (we're already salivating over Louisville vs. Clemson/Miami vs. Florida State), but there***8217;s one more blueblood slugfest left with Texas set to travel and face USC.

Both teams will be tested by this time. The Tom Herman era at Texas opens against an under-the-radar Maryland team, while USC will host Western Michigan and Stanford the first two weeks of the season. Still, this is a juicy matchup that could have Heisman implications for Trojans QB Sam Darnold and breakout implications for a long-dormant Longhorn program.

If this game is anything like the last USC/Texas matchup, it***8217;ll be a classic.

Florida State at Florida
Date: Saturday, Nov. 25
Time: TBD

Florida State***8217;s regular season schedule starts with a brutal matchup and ends with one as the team travels to Florida for their annual meeting. This game hasn***8217;t been particularly important on a national stage since 2014, but there***8217;s always a chance it will have significant implications for at least one team in the final week of the regular season.

The Seminoles might be fighting for a College Football Playoff Spot. The Gators might still have SEC title hopes. Either way, a battle in the swamp between the Gators and Tomahawk Chop is must-see TV.

Bob Stoops stunningly stepped down this summer, to be replaced by a 33 yr old with no head coaching experience. That seldom portents well but Stoops himself was of a similar profile so who knows.

Bob Stoops steps down from the Sooner program after 18 seasons in which he amassed a national championship in 2000, ten Big 12 championships, and the most wins as a Sooner head coach. Furthermore, he is the only coach to win the Fiesta Bowl, Orange Bowl, Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl and the national championship over a career, and he accumulated more victories over his first 18 seasons than any coach in the game's history.

During his tenure, Sooner football has become one of the most financially successful collegiate football programs in the country. According to Equity in Athletics Data from the U.S. Department of Education, and using their most recently available data (for the 2015-16 academic year), the program generated $94.1 million in revenues against just $35.8 million in expenses...for a profit of $58.3 million. Buoyed in large part by their football program, O.U. ranks among the nation's top 10 revenue-generating athletic departments in the country.

It should be interesting to see how Lincoln Riley's salary will be adjusted. Using the same USA Today coaching salary data source as above, Riley's 2016 total salary as O.U.'s offensive coordinator was $905,000...which was 15th-highest among all Division I assistant coaches.

If 2016 was the ***8220;Year of the Running Back,***8221; 2017 is primed to be the ***8220;Year of the QB.***8221; There are the all-world (and all-NFL) gunslingers in Los Angeles, USC***8217;s Sam Darnold and UCLA***8217;s Josh Rosen. There***8217;s the pair of Texas natives, J.T. Barrett (Ohio State) and Baker Mayfield (Oklahoma), who have the opportunity to smash program records and lead their team to the College Football Playoff. There are highly-talented sophomores like Jacob Eason, Shea Patterson, Jalen Hurts and Shane Buechele who hope to avoid a sophomore slump. There***8217;s potential breakout stars like Jarrett Stidham (Auburn) and Will Grier (West Virginia) who are finally back in the spotlight after a transfer and year away from football.

Add in gunslingers like Trace McSorley (Penn State), Heisman contenders like Jake Browning (Washington) and Mason Rudolph (Oklahoma State), and 2017 is as strong a year in college football as we***8217;ve seen in a long time.

Those above storylines are nice, but let***8217;s not forget one of the most breathtaking players of his generation ***8211; last year***8217;s Heisman winner Lamar Jackson.

Jackson obliterated defenses and put up filthy numbers (3,543 yards passing, 1,571 rushing, 51 total touchdowns) on his way to a Heisman win as a true sophomore. His play ***8211; mostly due to the ineffective work of his offensive line ***8211; tapered off late in 2017, which has hurt the potential for bigger offseason hype. But make no mistake, Jackson is still very dangerous.

Archie Griffin is the only back-to-back Heisman Trophy (1974-1975) winner in history. Next year, Jackson will have the opportunity to become the second. He***8217;ll have to overcome voter bias (nobody likes voting for the same story twice) and a brutal division (Clemson and Florida State loom), but he***8217;s got a shot.

3. Can Clemson be Knocked off its ACC Atlantic Perch?

Normally, a defending champion is at least given the benefit of a, ***8220;Is a national championship repeat possible?***8221; question. But in Clemson***8217;s case, it***8217;s questionable if the Tigers enter 2017 as the favorite in their own division. Florida State is ranked higher in many way-too-early Top 25s, including 247Sports***8217;, and Louisville remains a hurdle.

Dabo Swinney***8217;s Tigers still feature championship-level talent, but replacing a generational quarterback like Deshaun Watson is no easy task. There are good options under center for the Tigers, including five-star freshman Hunter Johnson, but it***8217;s going to be tough to replace Watson***8217;s production, leadership and moxie.

Clemson***8217;s defense, specifically its fearsome defensive line, will make the team dangerous. It just remains to be seen if the Tigers can topple Louisville and Florida State for the third straight year.

4. Big Ten East > SEC West?

The SEC West enjoyed a decade of dominance in college football from 2007-2016. The division claimed six of the 10 national championships in that span ***8211; LSU (1), Auburn (1) and Alabama (4) ***8211; and accounted for four Heisman Trophy winners. But that unquestioned title of best division faded in 2016 due to the reemergence of the Big Ten***8217;s Eastern powers.

While schools like LSU, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Texas A&M (midseason) tumbled, the Big Ten East emerged as college football***8217;s most top-heavy division. Ohio State, Michigan and Penn State competed for College Football Playoff spots, while Indiana and Maryland made bowls. Michigan State had an off year, sure, but that came after a run of three straight 11-win seasons. As for Rutgers, well ***8230; every division needs someone to be at the bottom.

There***8217;s no telling if the Big Ten East will continue its strong play, but if it does the title of ***8220;best division***8221; might finally shift away from the southeast.

5. Are the Trojans Back?

Before the SEC seized power, USC was the dynasty that seemed incapable of falling. Pete Carroll led the Trojans to seven straight 11-win seasons or better and turned a dormant blueblood into college football***8217;s Hollywood brand. Then Carroll bolted for the NFL and serious NCAA sanctions occurred, and the Trojans haven***8217;t been the same since.

That is until last year when the Trojans ripped off nine straight wins to end 2016, led by Darnold (ninth in FBS in passer rating), the next ***8220;it***8221; quarterback in USC lore. Darnold's got another year at USC before perhaps becoming the No. 1 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, and the Trojans are expected to finally be ***8220;back***8221; too.

It's no sure thing, though. Clay Helton was on the hot seat less than a year ago, and USC will have to push through one of college football***8217;s deepest conferences to reach the College Football Playoff.

6. Was 2016 a Hiccup or Trend for the Big 12?

The 2016/17 football calendar proved to be an excruciating one for the Big 12. Let's run it back. All the conference***8217;s contenders were basically out of the College Football Playoff race before conference play actually got underway. The Big 12 decided to explore expansion but did not even take a vote. The conference produced just 14 picks in the 2017 NFL Draft, which was 21 fewer than the next-closest Power Five conference and one fewer than the AAC.

So yeah, it's been tough times for America's favorite punching-bag conference.

Yet there is hope. Oklahoma is expected to be a CFB Playoff contender, Oklahoma State is a top-10 team, and Kansas State, Texas, West Virginia and TCU could all be preseason top-25 teams.

The conference won***8217;t ever really eliminate questions about its future unless Oklahoma and Texas are humming at the same time and it manages to expand (or at least gets a new long-term TV deal), but 2017 could be a bounce-back year for the Big 12. If it***8217;s not, the conference really is in trouble.

Per the 247Sports Team Talent Composite ranking, only two teams were more talented than LSU in 2016: Alabama and USC. We***8217;ve already hit on the Trojans, and the Tigers are the arguably the second-most underachieving roster in the country over the last five years with a 45-18 record.

That***8217;s supposed to change under Ed Orgeron. He certainly fits in well at LSU. He***8217;s a local with the gravelly voice to match, recruits better than almost anyone and will bring a defense-first mindset to the fold.

There are some question marks. First, he was LSU***8217;s third choice for the job ***8211; Jimbo Fisher and Tom Herman said no. Second, his first full-time head coaching experience at Ole Miss a decade ago was a disaster. Third, he***8217;s banking on two-high profile coordinators to carry the day (Matt Canada and Dave Aranda) while he serves in more of a CEO role.

He might be just what LSU needs, or he could be a mistake. Next season will provide a window into that answer.

8. Can Tom Herman Turn Texas Around?

It***8217;s already been a busy few months for Tom Herman at Texas. He***8217;s spurred change on the roster, with facilities ($8,700 lockers, anyone?) and on the recruiting trail ***8211; the Longhorns already have four Top247 commits from out of state and have flipped prospects from LSU, Florida State and Oklahoma. But none of that will matter much if Texas doesn***8217;t pile up victories in the fall.

Charlie Strong didn***8217;t win much at Texas, but he left the foundation of what could be a fringe contender with a pair of Top 10 classes making up the middle of the roster ***8211; sophomores and juniors. The Longhorns have their quarterback (Shane Buechele), a pair of could-be first-rounders (Malik Jefferson and Connor Williams) and plenty of skill talent.

It won***8217;t all come down to 2017 for Herman. It***8217;s just an opportunity for him to make a statement in Austin when the audience is at its most receptive.

9. Big-Name Coaches With Potentially Warm Seats

It***8217;s a little early for ***8220;hot seat***8221; lists, but there are a few coaches at high-profile programs in need of strong campaigns to avoid trailing questions about their job status.

Kevin Sumlin won 11 games in his debut season at Texas A&M, but the Aggies have stumbled to three straight 8-5 campaigns (A&M lost four of its last five games in 2016 to lose a Top 4 ranking). Mark Dantonio is coming off a 3-9 season at Michigan State, and his case isn***8217;t helped by a number of arrests that have rocked the program this offseason. Jim Mora needs a strong season with UCLA after back-to-back subpar showings (12-15 overall), Gus Malzahn could find his seat warm again if the Tigers stumble early in 2017 and Brian Kelly needs to make a statement at Notre Dame following a 4-8 season.

10. The Boring Dominance of Alabama

The 2017 polls haven***8217;t been released yet, but in all likelihood Alabama will be the preseason No. 1 again. And, as always, that***8217;s a story ***8211; even if it***8217;s a predictable one. Alabama brings back 11 starters, including a sophomore quarterback who won SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2016, from a team that came one drive away from back-to-back championships. A lot of talent departed, especially on defense, yet no one doubts the Crimson Tide will keep rolling.

Nick Saban just signed a long-term extension that will keep him at Alabama through 2024. Until he decides to step away, the Crimson Tide will always be in the mix. It might be expected, it might be boring, but the Crimson Tide will be there.

After four years of disappointing play under Sonny Dykes, Cal opted for a coach familiar with the program in hiring Wilcox, who was the Bears***8217; linebackers coach under Jeff Tedford from 2003***8211;2005. The hire was popular, and for good reason. Wilcox is a widely respected defensive coordinator, understands the demands of working for a school where football isn***8217;t a priority, and will revitalize local recruiting pipelines that dried under Dykes. Dykes refused to change his recruiting tendencies while in Berkeley, returning to familiar territories in Texas and on the junior college circuit instead of fostering relationships with local Northern California high school coaches. One of the finest architects of the Air Raid offense, Dykes also focused his recruiting on offense. The Bears***8217; defense, on the other hand, was execrable every year Dykes was in charge. Fixing it will be no small task.

Wilcox is an accomplished defensive coach, but he and new defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter need to overhaul a defense that has finished no higher than 109th in the nation for the last four seasons (three out of the four saw the Bears finish at No. 124 or lower in total defense). There are a few promising players on the defense (James Looney, Cameron Saffle, Devante Downs), but the unit is composed of players who probably aren***8217;t Pac-12 caliber and will need aggressive coaching to try and keep up with Pac-12 caliber offenses.

Texas hired Herman (duh). Actually the first time in like 80 years both Oklahoma and Texas have a new coach

my only for sure expectation is that brian kelly will resign and jack swarbrick will take some mega position as conference director or ncaa pres or something

nd is having massive issues internally, hemorrhaging recruits and transfers are getting serious. the only plus this year might be conditioning, longo finally not using sand to wear down ligaments w/ awkward torsional movement in knees and ankles could be great. forcing OL to run 100 yard suicides, then having them pass block every single play might improve things. wimbush is a tremendous athlete and supposedly the fastest player on the team right now. he already has the longest throw in hs off his back foot.

i suspect polian was hired to be a late season interim when kelly's agent gets him a job 4 the montreal allouettes

Also nap I couldn't find the heart to post any ND rleated articles. The low bar threshold keeps getting smashed each year, culminating in a 4-8 season...and he wasn't canned. Calling 50 pass plays in a literal hurricane and then publicly bashing his center for the snap....and he wasn't canned. He was dead to me after getting assraped by lowly Sark in 2014. Now I'm just numb.

nolt

06-20-2017 07:48 PM

football

The Magical Zoo

06-25-2017 11:09 PM

California coaches no longer allowed to travel to Trump states for recruiting, Bowl games or championships.